Call for Applications: DAAD GSSP 2026 at Leipzig University (2 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships)

Call for Applications: DAAD GSSP 2026: Overview

The Graduate School Global and Area Studies (GSGAS) at Leipzig University is offering 2 fully funded PhD scholarships through the DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP). The scholarships support international PhD candidates whose research addresses regional, transregional, transnational, or global topics, particularly those related to contemporary global challenges.

Call for Applications: DAAD GSSP 2026: Eligibility

• Open to international applicants who have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months.

• Must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent), completed no longer than 6 years before the application deadline.

• Proposed PhD projects should align with GSGAS’s interdisciplinary focus, addressing issues such as:

  • Conflicts, revolutions, and upheavals

  • Migration and refugee studies

  • Climate change, pandemics, and crises

  • Decolonisation, trans-imperial history, and post-colonial societies

  • Global economic transitions and dynamics (e.g., “polycrisis,” “slowbalization”)

Benefits

• Monthly stipend: €1,300

• Health & liability insurance included

• Research allowances provided

• Duration: up to 48 months (4 years)

• Start date: October 2026

Fellowship/Program Components

• Interdisciplinary academic environment at Leipzig University

• Access to the GSGAS research community focusing on global challenges

• Support for dissertation projects with both historical and contemporary relevance

Application Requirements

• Completed application form (available via GSGAS)

• Research proposal outlining PhD project

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates

• CV and proof of eligibility

• Other supporting documents as requested

 Selection Criteria

• Academic excellence and strong research background

• Quality, originality, and feasibility of proposed PhD project

• Relevance to GSGAS’s interdisciplinary themes

• Motivation and commitment to contribute to global research debates

Application Process

• Step 1: Written application to GSGAS by 15 November 2025.

• Step 2: Selection interviews & nomination by GSGAS (Jan/Feb 2026).

• Step 3: Final submission via DAAD portal (guidelines provided to nominees).

• Final Decision: Made by DAAD (by May 2026).

Note: Only applicants nominated by GSGAS will be invited to apply through the DAAD portal.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Call for Applications: DAAD GSSP 2026 at Leipzig University (2 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships)